Sen. Ross' amendments to jobs bill fail to pass

State Sen. Richard Ross, R-Wrentham, voted to pass legislation to stimulate economic growth and promote business in the commonwealth. The bill incorporated a variety of measures focusing on workforce development, assistance to small businesses and various tax reforms.

MetroWest Daily News, Framingham, MA

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Posted Jul. 20, 2012 at 12:01 AM
Updated Jul 20, 2012 at 8:15 PM

Posted Jul. 20, 2012 at 12:01 AM
Updated Jul 20, 2012 at 8:15 PM

BOSTON

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The following was provided by Sen. Richard Ross' office:

State Sen. Richard Ross, R-Wrentham, voted to pass legislation to stimulate economic growth and promote business in the commonwealth. The bill incorporated a variety of measures focusing on workforce development, assistance to small businesses and various tax reforms.

The bill includes a sales tax holiday, to be held over the weekend of Aug. 11 and 12, during which time the 6.25 percent sales tax will not be imposed on purchases of up to $2,500. The holiday, which has become a summer staple in the commonwealth over the last nine years, will allow consumers to save nearly $20 million.

“Individuals and families across the commonwealth continue to struggle financially, and it is imperative that we as a Legislature act to provide them with the economic opportunities they need,” said Sen. Ross. “This legislation is a step in the right direction to promoting businesses, developing the workforce and stimulating the Massachusetts economy.”

Several measures are included in the bill to improve the climate for Massachusetts businesses, with several measures focused on protecting small businesses in particular. To facilitate access to assistance, a website will be developed providing information on public and private resources available to aid and support small businesses in the commonwealth.

In addition, a tax credit, equal to the minimum corporate excise tax, will be provided to Massachusetts corporations for their first three tax years.

The bill also includes measures to promote workforce development and educational opportunities. Funding will be provided to establish paid internships with technology startups, an entrepreneur mentoring program, and skills training for jobs requiring a high school degree, but less than a four-year degree. Matching grants will also be provided for university-sponsored research and development projects.

In support of the Legislature’s continuing efforts to advance the commonwealth in the field of energy conservation, the bill provides loan options for energy conservation projects and funding for the Property Assessed Clean Energy Program (PACE).

Sen. Ross spoke in support of his amendment to the bill which would alter the state’s laws on eminent domain. By prohibiting the government taking an individual’s property for private economic use, this amendment would have protected citizens’ rights to their own private property and ensured any property seizure would only be for purposes of the public good.

Sen. Ross’ second amendment would broaden the criteria for municipalities to be classified as “Gateway Cities” by increasing the median household income and education rate thresholds. "Gateway Cities" are entitled to various economic benefits to encourage education and economic growth.

Neither of Sen. Ross’ amendments to the bill were passed by the Senate.

The bill will now be presented to Gov. Deval Patrick for his signature.